Valentino Garavani Dies at 93, Ending an Era in Fashion

Legendary Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 93, at his residence in Rome. His foundation confirmed that he died peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. His death marks the end of a defining chapter in global haute couture and Italian fashion history.

Early Life and Entry into Haute Couture

Born in May 1932 in Italy’s Lombardy region, Valentino displayed an early fascination with fashion and craftsmanship. At just 17, he moved to Paris to formally study fashion at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. His formative years included professional stints under celebrated designers such as Jacques Fath, Cristóbal Balenciaga, Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche. These experiences shaped his signature style, defined by refined silhouettes, rich fabrics and timeless elegance.

Rise of the Valentino Fashion House

In 1960, Valentino co-founded the Valentino fashion house in Rome, laying the foundation for what would become one of the most influential luxury brands in the world. His designs quickly gained international recognition, particularly for their opulence and his iconic shade of “Valentino Red.” Over the decades, his clientele included royalty, political figures and Hollywood icons, firmly placing his label among the elite of global fashion.

Global Influence and Celebrity Patronage

Valentino’s creations were worn by some of the most prominent cultural figures of the 20th and early 21st centuries, including Elizabeth Taylor, Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone and Gwyneth Paltrow. Known universally by his first name, he stood shoulder to shoulder with contemporaries such as Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld. In 1998, he sold Valentino SpA to the Italian conglomerate HdP for around USD 300 million but continued his creative involvement for several years.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Valentino Garavani founded the Valentino fashion house in Rome in 1960.
• He studied fashion in Paris at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.
• “Valentino Red” is recognised as a signature colour in global fashion.
• He retired from active fashion designing in 2008.

Final Rites and End of a Fashion Generation

Valentino will lie in state on Wednesday and Thursday, with his funeral scheduled for Friday at 11 am in Rome. Although the cause of death has not been disclosed, his passing is widely seen as the symbolic close of a generation of fashion maestros who shaped modern luxury. His legacy endures through his brand, his aesthetic philosophy, and his lasting influence on haute couture worldwide.